Puff Pastry Mincemeat Pinwheels

Name: Puff Pastry Mincemeat Pinwheels
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 17 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: Festive
Ingredients: 375 g Puff Pastry Sheet (ready rolled); 400 g Mincemeat; 40 g Dried Cranberries; Zest of 1 Clementine; 1 Egg (beaten); 1 tbsp Icing Sugar

Published: December 5, 2025

by Simon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation – With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can have these pinwheels ready to bake in no time.
Versatile Flavor – The combination of mincemeat and dried cranberries creates a unique taste that appeals to everyone.
Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual get-together, these pinwheels fit right in.
Easily Customizable – Feel free to add nuts or different dried fruits to tailor the recipe to your taste.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat – With 18 servings, there’s plenty to share, making them ideal for parties.

Tools and Preparation

To make these puff pastry mincemeat pinwheels, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will streamline the process and enhance your baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking sheets
Baking paper
Rolling pin
Sharp knife
Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

Baking sheets – These provide a sturdy base for your pinwheels, ensuring even baking and easy transfer.
Sharp knife – A sharp knife allows for clean cuts when slicing the pastry roll into pinwheels, preserving their shape.
Mixing bowl – Use this to combine ingredients effectively if you decide to customize the filling.

Ingredients

Easy puff pastry mincemeat pinwheels. Much quicker to make than mince pies and just as tasty!

For the Pastry

375 g Puff Pastry Sheet (ready rolled)

For the Filling

400 g Mincemeat
40 g Dried Cranberries
1 Clementine (zest only)

For Finishing Touches

1 Egg (beaten)
1 tbsp Icing Sugar

How to Make Puff Pastry Mincemeat Pinwheels

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 200°C (180 °fan/ Gas 6) and line 2 baking sheets with baking paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Pastry

Unroll the puff pastry sheet and spread the mincemeat over the top leaving a small gap on the long edges.

Step 3: Add Cranberries and Zest

Scatter over the dried cranberries and grate over clementine zest for added flavor.

Step 4: Roll Up the Pastry

Roll the pastry up on the long edge. Utilize the baking paper that comes with the rolled puff pastry sheet to help create as tight a roll as possible.

Step 5: Chill (Optional)

If you have time, pop the pastry roll in the fridge for 15 minutes. This will help maintain its shape during baking.

Step 6: Slice and Arrange

Using a sharp knife, cut slices about 2cm thick from the roll. Place them on the lined baking sheets. Brush each slice with egg wash for a golden finish.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in a preheated oven for 15-17 minutes or until golden brown. Leave to cool for 10 minutes on the baking trays before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 8: Dust with Icing Sugar

Once cooled, dust your delicious puff pastry mincemeat pinwheels with icing sugar before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Puff Pastry Mincemeat Pinwheels

Puff pastry mincemeat pinwheels are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, these pinwheels can elevate any occasion.

With a Hot Beverage

Pair the pinwheels with hot tea or coffee to create a comforting snack experience.

As a Dessert Platter

Arrange the mincemeat pinwheels on a dessert platter alongside fresh fruits and other pastries for a colorful display.

Topped with Cream

Serve with whipped cream or vegan alternatives for an added creamy texture that complements the sweet filling.

Accompanied by Ice Cream

Enjoy warm pinwheels straight from the oven with a scoop of vanilla or plant-based ice cream for a delicious contrast.

Garnished with Nuts

Sprinkle chopped nuts over the top for an extra crunch and flavor boost when serving.

How to Perfect Puff Pastry Mincemeat Pinwheels

To achieve the best results with your puff pastry mincemeat pinwheels, consider these helpful tips.

Chill the pastry: If possible, refrigerate the rolled pastry before slicing. This helps maintain its shape while baking.
Use quality mincemeat: Opt for high-quality mincemeat for richer flavors. Homemade versions can also enhance taste.
Slice evenly: Ensure each slice is uniform in thickness (about 2cm) for even baking and consistent appearance.
Brush egg wash thoroughly: Apply beaten egg generously on top of each roll before baking to achieve a beautiful golden-brown finish.
Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on the oven as baking times may vary slightly. Remove them when they are golden and puffed.

Best Side Dishes for Puff Pastry Mincemeat Pinwheels

Pairing side dishes with puff pastry mincemeat pinwheels can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

Fresh Salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette can balance the sweetness of the pinwheels.
Vegetable Crudités: Serve with fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers along with dips for added crunch.
Cheese Board: Include a variety of cheeses and crackers to offer savory contrasts to your sweet pinwheels.
Warm Soup: A bowl of hearty tomato or vegetable soup complements the flaky texture of the pastry beautifully.
Fruit Compote: A side of warm fruit compote can provide additional sweetness and freshness that pairs well with each bite.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables serve as a nutritious side that balances out the richness of the pastries.
Yogurt Dip: A yogurt-based dip adds creaminess and tang, perfect alongside sweet pastries for dipping.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your experience making Puff Pastry Mincemeat Pinwheels.

Incorrect pastry thickness: Using puff pastry that is too thick can result in a dense texture. Roll it out slightly if necessary to achieve a thinner layer for better puff.
Not chilling the roll: Skipping the chilling step may cause the pinwheels to lose their shape while baking. A short time in the fridge helps maintain their form.
Overfilling with mincemeat: Adding too much filling can make rolling difficult and lead to spills during baking. Spread a thin, even layer for the best results.
Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect puffing and browning. Always preheat your oven to ensure even cooking.
Failing to brush with egg wash: Omitting this step can result in dull-looking pastries. A simple egg wash adds a beautiful golden color and shine.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store Puff Pastry Mincemeat Pinwheels in an airtight container.
They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Puff Pastry Mincemeat Pinwheels

Wrap individual pinwheels tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
They can be frozen for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Puff Pastry Mincemeat Pinwheels

Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds, but note that this method may make them less crispy.
Stovetop: Place pinwheels in a non-stick skillet over low heat, covering briefly until warmed, which helps retain crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Puff Pastry Mincemeat Pinwheels, we have answers!

How do I make Puff Pastry Mincemeat Pinwheels gluten-free?

To make these pinwheels gluten-free, use gluten-free puff pastry available at many stores. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Can I add nuts or seeds to my Puff Pastry Mincemeat Pinwheels?

Yes! Chopped nuts or seeds can add crunch and flavor. Just mix them into the mincemeat before spreading it on the pastry.

How do I prevent my Puff Pastry Mincemeat Pinwheels from getting soggy?

Ensure you don’t overfill them with mincemeat, and consider baking them immediately after preparation for the best texture.

What can I serve with Puff Pastry Mincemeat Pinwheels?

These pinwheels pair well with whipped cream, custard sauce, or fruit preserves for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

Puff Pastry Mincemeat Pinwheels are a delightful dessert that is both quick and easy to make. Their buttery flaky layers combined with sweet mincemeat create an irresistible treat. Feel free to customize your pinwheels by adding fruits or spices according to your taste!

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